MK 8 - Microphone Capsule, Figure of 8

Description

The MK 8 is often used for M/S and double M/S stereo sound in film sound and music recording, in combination with Colette or CCM microphones and/or a CMIT shotgun microphone.

This type of capsule is a pure dipole. The figure-eight pattern of the MK 8 remains constant from low to high frequencies, which is particularly important when used in an M/S setup. Its sensitivity rolls off more at low frequencies than other capsules, but proximity effect (which can compensate, given relatively close placement) is also more pronounced.

Production of the MK 8 is a special technical accomplishment, because in terms of physics, the available force due to the pressure gradient is minimal. Despite this, the MK 8 has excellent frequency and polar response, near-perfect front/back symmetry, and low inherent noise.

The microphone is comparatively sensitive to solid-borne sound as well as wind and breath noise. Good protection should be considered, e.g. suitable wind screening and/or shock mounting.

The pickup direction is lateral, i.e. perpendicular to the microphone housing, and the 0° and 180° axes are indicated respectively by red and black dots on the capsule housing. When recording with M/S, the 0° axis (as viewed from a position behind the microphone) should point to the left, and the "8" engraved on top of the capsule should be precisely horizontal.

FEATURES

• Figure-8 characteristic (pure pressure-gradient transducer)
• Pickup direction: Lateral (perpendicular to the microphone axis)
• 0°-axis marked with a red dot
• Preferred application: M/S, double M/S and "Blumlein" stereo

PRACTICE

The MK 5 is nearly an all-purpose capsule. It is what we recommend for those starting out with the Colette series, unless particular circumstances (such as the need for greater directivity or a bidirectional pattern) would indicate a different choice.

(Please note: The pattern selector should be definitely set to one position or the other; in-between settings will yield undefined results.)

VARIANTS & OPTIONS

Matching: Although our normal production tolerances are very close, we can deliver specially matched capsule pairs for a small extra charge.

Custom color: nickel, chromagreen, other custom colors on request

Custom engraving